Judge Axes Pima County’s 2-Day Deadline for Reporting Lost or Stolen Firearms

A judge in Pima County has struck down a recent mandate from the Board of Supervisors requiring gun owners to report lost or stolen firearms within 48 hours or face a $1,000 fine. The measure, proposed by Supervisor Rex Scott, aimed to combat “straw buyers” who unlawfully transfer firearms to individuals unable to pass background checks. Following its passage in March 2024, concerns were raised regarding its legality, prompting a lawsuit from the Goldwater Institute, the Arizona Citizens Defense League, and local Republican Chris King.

In a ruling issued on Tuesday, Judge Greg Sakall determined that the county’s ordinance was preempted by state law and granted a permanent injunction against its enforcement. During an earlier meeting, Supervisor Scott argued that the ordinance would deter straw purchasers and prevent prohibited possessors from falsely claiming their firearms were lost or stolen, thereby addressing a concerning trend in gun trafficking.

Despite the county’s intentions, the Goldwater Institute welcomed the court’s decision. They highlighted that the ordinance not only lacked legal standing but also unfairly targeted law-abiding gun owners rather than the criminals responsible for firearms theft. King, whose firearm had been stolen during a burglary while he was on duty, voiced relief regarding the ruling, emphasizing that victims of theft should not face penalties.

The Goldwater Institute’s staff attorney, Parker Jackson, described the ruling as a crucial win for gun owners across Arizona, asserting that it prevents localities from imposing varied firearm regulations. Meanwhile, the Pima County Attorney’s Office is evaluating its options following the court’s decision, asserting that the ordinance was designed to stop illegal gun transfers.

Scott has not yet commented on the ruling but indicated plans to convene with the Board of Supervisors for further discussions. In a previous opinion piece, Scott articulated that the ordinance would assist law enforcement by addressing illegal gun transactions linked to straw purchasers, citing the risks posed by prohibited possessors.